How to Avoid Weight Gain with Celiac Disease

Eat a varied diet

Anyone who consumes too much of any high-calorie item, such as pasta, will gain weight, whether it's gluten-free or regular.

Go lean

Select lean meats, fish, and chicken for protein sources.

Snack wisely

Eat popcorn instead of gluten-free fried chips. Make homemade trail mix with gluten-free granola, dried fruits, nuts, and seeds instead of munching on gluten-free pretzels.

Choose low-fat

Use Gluten-free products when possible.

Increase fiber intake

Fiber helps people feel fuller longer, and since many gluten-free products are low in fiber they may not be fully satisfying. Eating more fruits and vegetables can help keep hunger at bay.

Plan variety in individual meals

Avoid meals with only one food group. For example, add nuts and seeds to gluten-free cereal.

Watch serving sizes

Without the stretchy and sticky qualities of gluten, gluten-free recipes must use other means to hold starch-based products together. It means a serving size of traditional packaged cookies might be two, whereas with a gluten-free product it would be one.

Be a detective

Watch out for added calories in recipes. When possible, use yogurt or low-fat sour cream instead of margarine or butter